How to write a career objective for your resume?

Among the most critical components of a resume is the career objective. But what does it entail, and how can it be professionally conveyed?

What is a career objective?

While a career objective is typically only two to three lines in length, it holds significant importance. A career objective is a concise overview of the applicant’s career goals, including their job expectations, reasons for pursuing opportunities in a specific field, and the value they can add to the workplace. Given that the career objective is often the first section reviewed by employers, it should be polished, impactful, and error-free.

Resume success secret: how to write a career objective 

Several matters need to be taken into consideration when writing the career objective in a resume, including:

Keeping it concise: inviting the reader in

A career objective should be succinct to maintain its effectiveness. Employers often scan multiple resumes to identify suitable candidates for an interview. A long career objective may deter them from reading it or give the impression that it is filled with unnecessary details. Therefore, it should be concise and well-structured, using clear and powerful language that effectively conveys the required message.

Setting clear objectives: the essential piece of the puzzle

When crafting career objectives, it is crucial to set specific goals based on a clear understanding and an adequate conception of the desired job. Short-term and long-term goals should be accurately and specified, along with the career path, expectations, and the position one aspires to attain. Moreover, these goals must be specific, realistic, measurable, viable, and achievable. 

Highlighting certifications and expertise: the smart selection

Certifications and skills are usually listed in a separate section of the resume. However, subtly mentioning them in the career objectives section without going into details can be beneficial. This approach captures the attention of hiring managers and encourages them to delve deeper into the applicant’s professional details, which are directly relevant to the job.

For example, when applying for a teaching position at a school, mentioning the significant value of a completed training course in child behaviour management is advisable. This step is particularly beneficial to job seekers entering the job market for the first time, especially fresh graduates.

Demonstrating passion for the job: a declaration of work enthusiasm

A well-crafted career objective should highlight the unique contributions and benefits the applicant intends to bring to their prospective workplace. It should convey the passion and strong desire to work. This requires strong and authentic phrases, such as, “I have great potential and I am eager to channel it to help you achieve your goals”, “Throughout my career, my passion has driven me to achieve the highest goals”, or similar phrases that stand out.

Career objective samples for resume

Here are some helpful examples of how to craft a career objective in a resume. However, it is essential to customise them to match personal information and other details:

First sample: entering the job market for the first time

“Ambitious graphic designer, fueled by innovation, ready to make a splash in the graphic design field. Looking for a full-time position to become a valuable and proactive member of your team. Confident in my ability to contribute to your company's success, and eager to learn and grow under your guidance.”

Second sample: career or industry change 

“Exceptional marketing communications leader with a passion for philanthropy, seeking new opportunities with reputable institutions and non-profit organisations. Dedicated to driving impactful change in the workplace and the community through my skills and experience.”

Third sample: seeking advancement in the industry

“Experienced educator with almost two decades of teaching from kindergarten to 12th grade, seeking a leadership role as a high school principal in my local community. Eager to leverage my leadership skills to uphold educational excellence, empower students to succeed, and shape their future.”